In October, Heathrow bosses signed a memorandum of understanding with the Scottish Government that promised a £10 reduction in Heathrow charges for domestic services. The reduction will be introduced in January 2017.

Commenting on the Flybe expansion, Economy Secretary Keith Brown said: “This is very welcome news and encouraging evidence that the reduced passenger charges we pushed for, and which are covered in our memorandum of understanding with Heathrow Airport, are starting to have a real impact on services.”

Heathrow chief executive John Holland-Kaye said: “With Flybe based at Terminal 2, it also means new, unique direct access from Heathrow to markets such as Colombia, Taipei and Auckland - meaning more opportunity for Scottish businesses looking to reach new export markets.”

UK Aviation Minister Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon added: “These routes are great news for passengers and businesses who rely on strong links between Scotland and Heathrow, the UK’s major hub airport, opening up more opportunities to connect Aberdeen and Edinburgh with destinations around the world.”